Biden Visits Angola to Boost U.S. Ties

President Joe Biden is set to travel to Angola on December 1, marking his first visit to Africa since attending COP27 in 2022 and fulfilling a promise to strengthen U.S. ties with the continent amidst rising Chinese influence. The trip will focus on the Lobito Corridor project, a significant U.S.-backed railway initiative linking Angola to resource-rich regions in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, aimed at facilitating the export of vital minerals like copper and cobalt to Western markets. This $550 million investment, which reflects a strategic shift towards infrastructure and investment rather than traditional aid, is seen as a proactive counter to China's dominance in the region. Biden's visit highlights a broader U.S. strategy to enhance economic and security relations with Africa, which is expected to continue under future administrations. The trip was originally scheduled for October but was postponed due to Hurricane Milton. In addition to discussing the railway, Biden will engage with Angolan President Joao Lourenco on topics including public health and military cooperation.